Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Integrated Forensic Services provides professional forensic document examination for attorneys, businesses, government agencies, and private individuals. We analyze questioned documents, signatures, handwriting, altered documents, and other evidence to determine authenticity and identify signs of fraud.

A forensic document examiner is a trained expert who scientifically evaluates handwriting, signatures, printed documents, inks, and other document features to determine authenticity or identify evidence of alteration or forgery.

Our clients include:

• Attorneys and law firms
• Businesses and corporations
• Insurance companies
• Government agencies
• Financial institutions
• Private individuals

Yes. We provide expert witness services for depositions, arbitration, mediation, and courtroom testimony. Our findings are presented in clear, objective reports that meet professional forensic standards.

Yes. We compare questioned signatures with known authentic samples to identify characteristics that indicate whether a signature is genuine, simulated, traced, or otherwise questioned.

In many cases, yes. By comparing known handwriting samples with the questioned writing, we can determine whether the same person likely wrote both documents.

Generally, we request multiple known writing samples that are similar in content, writing style, and timeframe to the questioned document. The more comparable samples available, the stronger the examination.

Whenever possible, original documents are preferred because they contain physical characteristics that copies cannot reproduce. However, some examinations can be performed using high-quality digital images or photocopies depending on the circumstances.

We examine many types of documents, including:

• Contracts
• Wills and trusts
• Checks
• Medical records
• Business records
• Financial documents
• Letters
• Anonymous notes
• Legal documents
• Employment records

Yes. We examine documents for erasures, additions, substitutions, obliterations, alterations, and other indications that a document has been modified.

Yes. Depending on the available evidence, we can evaluate whether pages, signatures, dates, or other elements have been replaced or altered.

Yes. Digital documents may provide useful information, although original documents typically allow for a more comprehensive forensic examination.

Simply contact our office with information about your case. We'll discuss your situation, determine whether your documents are suitable for examination, and explain the next steps.

Yes. All inquiries and examinations are handled professionally and confidentially.

Turnaround time depends on the complexity of the case and the amount of material being examined. After reviewing your documents, we'll provide an estimated completion timeline.

Fees vary based on the complexity of the examination, the number of questioned documents, and whether expert testimony is required. Contact us for a customized estimate.

Yes. Documents can often be securely shipped or submitted electronically for an initial review. We also work with attorneys and clients nationwide when appropriate.

Our examinations follow accepted forensic document examination principles and are prepared for legal proceedings. The admissibility of any evidence is ultimately determined by the court.

Yes. Many clients use our reports during mediation, arbitration, insurance disputes, and settlement discussions in addition to courtroom proceedings.

Absolutely. Our role is to provide objective, evidence-based opinions regardless of which party retains our services.